NHL teams Toronto Maple Leafs and Buffalo Sabres undergo roster changes

The Toronto Maple Leafs and Buffalo Sabres are undergoing significant roster and organizational changes ahead of the 2026-27 NHL season.

In Toronto, the Maple Leafs have implemented a major roster turnover under new general manager John Chayka and head coach Jim Hiller. Key questions remain regarding the health and performance of core stars Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and John Tavares. The team has also signed undrafted defenseman Hayes Hundley to a three-year entry-level deal and is being advised to consider veteran Gustav Nyquist as a potential low-risk depth option. Meanwhile, Jeff Skinner has signed with EHC Biel-Bienne in Switzerland after failing to find an NHL contract.

The Buffalo Sabres are also reshaping their organization, notably hiring former NHL defenseman David Warsofsky as a Defense Development Coach. The Sabres' front office has seen seven staff changes, including new roles in data science and recruiting. On the ice, the Sabres are transitioning to a younger core following a successful 2025-26 campaign, which included the acquisition of defenseman Olen Zellweger and the drafting of Daxon Rudolph.